Unveiling The Thematic Experience in
the Province of Aklan
By: Kazer Perez
MPDC LGU Kalibo
Aklan is known for its internationally renowned island of Boracay; however, the
province offers much more than white-sand beaches.
Aklan is a first-class province home to thousands of Aklanons, who are known
to visitors as some of the most hospitable and welcoming people who chose
Aklan as their travel destination.
Thematic Area: Culinary
Aklan is known for its local delicacies. Due to the province’s massive
agricultural sector, the food comes with the freshest ingredients local
producers offer, from the comforting taste of Binakoe nga Manok cooked in
bamboo trunks sweetened by young coconut water, the savory Adobong
Manok sa Payok (coconut milk), the Aklanon twist for chicken soup like the
Inubarang Manok, the dish made by freshwater shrimp and coconut milk,
Linapay is an earthy and sweet dish. The sweet treats like the Ampao (rice
crispies), and for visitors who feel adventurous looking for exotic foods, they
can try the Tamilok found in our mangrove forests. Aklan offers an array of
diverse ethnic culinary trademarks reflecting upon the province’s culture and
abundant resources, making it part of an unforgettable experience for
visitors and tourists alike.
Thematic Area: Nature and Adventure
Aklan is a paradise for nature lovers and thrill-seekers. The province offers
unique adventures. In the remote barangay of Ma. Cristina, Madalag, and
Liktinon are areas known for their pristine water and beautiful white rock
formations. Visitors can enjoy activities like trekking, hiking, camping, and
river rafting.
For beachgoers seeking something new beyond Boracay, Tangalan offers
crystal-clear waters, a pristine white sand beach, and the striking Afga rock
formation—a natural masterpiece blending seamlessly with the coastal
beauty. Nearby, you’ll find the 7 basins of Jawili Falls. Tangalan also offers a
serene nature sanctuary ideal for peaceful retreats.
The rising fame of Buruanga’s Hinugtan Beach is not off the list for those
who want an alternative to the island of Boracay.
Thematic Area: Wellness
For travelers looking for places to unwind, relax, and heal, Aklan offers spots
for the mind and body.
A resurgence in popularity during the heat waves in recent years, Nabas Cold
Springs is a series of cold spring resorts in the secluded Barangay of Laserna
in Nabas Aklan. The water’s temperature drops at a staggering rate, and
visitors can even use the water to cool down drinks, even during the height
of the country’s summer heat.
The cold spring’s source comes from a nearby mountain range, and it’s
believed to be able to heal muscle pain, relieve stress, and prevent heat-
related illnesses. The place comes with barely any signal for communication
or the internet, making visitors take a break from technology and connect
with nature.
If you’re looking for a nice Nature Walk, tread along the famous 220-hectare
Bakhawan Eco Park, walking through the thick mangrove forest as a result of
Kalibo’s reforestation project, proves beneficial in terms of providing
protection from dangerous sea-borne elements as well as providing clean air
for Aklanons, a simple walk and exploration of the park would help in
relaxation as well as exercise.
Thematic Area: Culture and Heritage
Aklan is arguably the oldest province in the country, spanning over half a
millennium of rich history and culture. One could say that your stay at Aklan
would not be complete without having to experience it at least once.
Home of the mother of all festivals, Ati-atihan is one of the most anticipated
cultural activities in the whole country, showcasing traditional and ethnic
culture and its acceptance of Christianity. In a week, people take to the
streets to participate in “sa pagpanaad” and “pag sad-sad” for most
Aklanons, who devote this week to the Sto. Niño, the patron of this festival;
however, people from all walks of life are free to participate and experience
the festivities.
UNESCO declared the Aklan piña handloom weaving an official part of the
UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2023, a long-time tradition of using
Pineapple leaf fiber woven using handlooms into textiles, the tradition is kept
alive by families and passed on through generations, and now being taught
in schools around Aklan.
The art of making traditional weapons is a rare cultural heritage, and the
municipality of Libacao keeps this tradition known, The Talibong, popular
among collectors and swordsmiths, is an ancient Filipino weapon originally
evolved from ancient tools used by Filipinos and known for hundreds of years
as a trademark of Visayan warriors used against colonizers and up to the
second world war. Its blade has various shapes and sizes, while the scabbard
typically resembles a fish’s tail and is held by abaca fiber, nito and natnat,
adorned with coins and other decorations, while the hilt is made out of
Carabao horns, designed after the features of the local fauna or local lore,
like the horn of a male beetle. Now a collector’s item, valued for its
craftsmanship and long historical significance.
